A Vanderbilt expert sets the record straight on common misconceptions about multiple sclerosis.
There are many myths and misconceptions lurking around multiple sclerosis. Vanderbilt University Medical Center’s Harold Moses Jr., M.D., addressed six myths surrounding the disease.
1. Multiple sclerosis is a terminal illness.
Moses: The average person with MS lives anywhere from seven to nine years less than a person without MS. MS is not a disease that really affects patient mortality in a significant way. However, it does affect what we call “morbidity,” which is about disability. So, a number of people over time can have more disability as a result of MS.
2. Only old people get the disease.
Moses: That’s absolutely false. Of all the chronic neurological illnesses that exist, MS is the one that affects people at the youngest age. The average person with MS is 29 years of age when diagnosed; whereas with other chronic illnesses such as dementia, ALS and Parkinson’s disease, people are typically diagnosed after 50.
3. MS will leave a patient paralyzed or disabled in every case.
Moses: No, absolutely not true. In fact, there are a number of people who have fully functional lives for extended periods of time after their diagnosis and some people even reach the end of their lives with no disability from their MS.
4. Women with MS can’t breastfeed.
Moses: Not true. There is some evidence that breastfeeding helps prevent relapses during women’s postpartum time. We encourage breastfeeding when possible.
5. MS is curable.
Moses: No. Unfortunately, like almost all chronic illnesses, MS is not curable. However, current treatments have changed the progress of this disease significantly.
6. MS patients should cut back on physical activity and avoid the gym.
Moses: Oh no. Physical activity is key for patients to maintain functionality. For folks, especially as they have more chronic MS or problems with their gait, physical activity is the one thing that can help preserve the ability to be more functional and walk.
The Multiple Sclerosis Center at Vanderbilt University Medical Center evaluates and treats adults and children with multiple sclerosis and similar conditions. Learn more about the services offered by visiting the website or by calling 615-343-1176.
